Making your home more energy efficient is not a one-off project. This is something to work overtime on!
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In this blog post, we discuss some ways you can make your home more energy efficient in the long term. We also share tips on how to stay motivated and keep up with those projects.
Install solar panels
Solar panels are a clean and easy way to reduce energy bills. They absorb sunlight, convert that light into electricity, and then emit the electricity back into your home. If you have more panels than you need, you can even sell the excess power to utility companies for a profit. If you are in the Brisbane area and need more solar power in Brisbane, then search for reputable suppliers for more information and details. Although solar panels can last up to 20 years, they are not maintenance free. The key is to keep them clean, even a thin film of dust on the surface will greatly reduce their ability to absorb sunlight.
Install solar panels on rooftops or other areas with direct sunlight so they can operate at peak efficiency throughout the day without being interrupted by trees at certain times of the year (this is especially important in places where it rains less than snow) . . You should also consider installing them inside window sills if possible, as this increases visibility while reducing glare from reflected light reflecting off reflective surfaces such as glass doors or windows themselves – both indoors and outdoors. There are many incentives for people who want to install solar panels. In addition to the 30% state tax credit for solar investments, some states offer incentives such as rebates, grants, or property tax exemptions.
Re-caulk windows and doors
Caulk is a thick sealer used to fill cracks, crevices and gaps around windows and doors. It keeps moisture out of the house, prevents drafts, and can also better insulate your house. The best time to caulk is in warm weather when the temperature is above 40 degrees Fahrenheit, as caulk will not adhere if the surface or air temperature falls below this point.
First, remove the old gasket with a utility knife or caulk removal tool. Scrape off all of the old caulk and wash off any residue from both surfaces. Dry the area thoroughly before applying new grout. Then place tape around each side of the window or door frame that you want to caulk, including about ¼ inch beyond where you want to fill in new caulk. Apply two beads at a time—one on each side—in a continuous motion until you reach the end of that surface, filling gaps less than ½ inch wide and larger cracks between your home's side walls and exterior surfaces such as windows or doors off. The most common types of gaskets are latex-based acrylic (which provides good adhesion and flexibility) or silicone (which is waterproof, flexible and durable). Latex gaskets are paintable, while silicone gaskets should be painted over with a latex primer. After the caulk has dried, remove the tape. If you have excess gasket material, use a damp cloth to clean it up.
Fix leaky faucets and toilets
A leaky faucet or toilet can waste hundreds of gallons of water every day and cost you money on your water bill. Leaks can also cause damage to your fixtures and promote mold growth. It's a simple and inexpensive way to save water and improve your home's energy efficiency by repairing leaks.
You can buy low-flow toilets and showerheads that use less water than standard faucets. Low flow devices are required by law for new buildings and renovations, but you can easily install them yourself. A typical shower uses about 36 gallons of water. For example, if you have an 8 foot wall that is 4 feet thick and 90 inches high at the bottom, it will take a long time to clean if you clean with just one mop on each side. Apart from that, there are many other ways to save water in your home.
Update your devices
While it's important to go green in your home by switching to energy efficient appliances, you also want to make sure they can stand up to regular wear and tear over time. Therefore, you should consider opting for smart devices as opposed to traditional ones. For example, if your washer or dryer breaks down once a year, it can cost up to $250 on average each time. This means that new device upgrades are a sound investment in more ways than one, as they last longer and use less energy overall.
Making your home more energy efficient will save you money and protect the environment in the long run. There are many simple changes you can make to your home to reduce your energy use, and making these changes can improve the overall efficiency of your home.
